
Common Scams & How to Avoid Them in Saki, Oyo, Nigeria
1. Morowo Market Scam Awareness
Learn to identify overpricing and bargaining scams at Morowo Market. Be informed on common pickpocketing spots.
- Price Comparison: Know the local price range for items before shopping.
- Personal Belongings Safety: Keep your belongings secure and be vigilant in crowded areas.
- Local Guides: Consider hiring a trusted local guide for the market visit.
2. Transportation Fare Scams
Avoid overpaying for taxi or bus rides. Recognize the signs of being taken to an unofficial fare collection point.
- Official Taxis: Use official taxis and check for identification.
- Fixed Rates: Ask for the fare before starting the journey.
- Common Destinations: Know the average cost to common destinations in advance.
3. ATM Skimming Scams
Protect your bank details from ATM skimmers. Recognize the signs of compromised or fake ATMs.
- Secure ATMs: Choose well-lit, secure, and busy ATM locations.
- Cover Your Keys: Cover the keypad when entering your PIN to prevent potential eavesdropping.
- Monitor Accounts Regularly: Regularly monitor your bank accounts for unauthorized transactions.
4. Counterfeit Currency Scams
Recognize the signs of counterfeit naira bills to avoid being scammed when making purchases or withdrawals.
- Feel the Notes: Counterfeit notes often feel different from genuine ones.
- Check the Serial Numbers: Genuine notes will have unique serial numbers that match the pattern on the note.
- Inspect the Security Features: Look for security features like watermarks, holograms, and threaded seals.
5. Currency Exchange Scams
Avoid being ripped off when exchanging foreign currency. Know the fair rates and beware of unofficial exchange points.
- Official Exchange Points: Use official banks or authorized exchange bureaus.
- Check Multiple Sources: Compare rates at multiple exchange points to find the best deal.
- Watch for Hidden Fees: Ask about any fees or commissions before exchanging currency.
6. Bureau de Change Fraud
Stay safe when exchanging currency at bureau de change. Be wary of unattended booths and watch for distraction techniques.
- Busy Locations: Choose busy locations with a lot of foot traffic.
- Attendants on Duty: Ensure that the attendant is present and not distracted during the exchange.
- Verify Change: Count your change carefully to ensure you receive the correct amount.
7. Accommodation Rip-offs
Avoid overpaying for accommodation. Recognize signs of subpar rooms or inflated prices.
- Reputable Hotels: Stay at reputable hotels and double-check online reviews.
- Negotiate Prices: Negotiate prices with the hotel manager before finalizing your booking.
- Check for Hidden Charges: Ask about any additional charges, such as service fees or taxes.
8. Tour Guide Scams
Avoid unlicensed tour guides who may take you to scam destinations and overcharge for services.
- Licensed Guides: Use licensed and registered tour guides.
- Negotiate Fees: Negotiate prices with the guide before finalizing your arrangement.
- Check Reviews: Research and read reviews about tour guides online.
9. Dining & Drinks Scams
Avoid overpriced food and drinks. Be wary of tampered drinks and hidden charges.
- Reputable Restaurants: Dine at reputable restaurants with good reviews.
- Inspect Bills Carefully: Check the bill carefully for any unexpected charges.
- Negotiate Prices: Ask about prices before ordering, especially for drinks.
10. Mobile Phone Scams
Avoid buying a faulty or overpriced phone. Recognize the signs of an inflated price or a scam dealer.
- Reputable Shops: Buy mobile phones from reputable shops and retailers.
- Price Comparison: Compare prices at multiple shops to find the best deal.
- Check Warranty and Returns: Ask about warranty, returns, and after-sales service before purchasing.
11. Sim Card Scams
Avoid being ripped off when buying a SIM card. Recognize the signs of an inflated price or a scam vendor.
- Authorized Vendors: Buy SIM cards from authorized vendors such as network operator stores or airports.
- Check Included Services: Ensure the SIM card includes the services you need (e.g., data, calls, text messages).
- Price Comparison: Compare prices at multiple vendors to find the best deal.
12. Street Performers Scams
Avoid being scammed by unscrupulous street performers. Be wary of pickpocketing or attempts to overcharge for performances.
- Reputable Venues: Watch performances at reputable venues like cultural centers or theaters.
- Ask for Prices: Ask about prices before giving any money to performers.
- Keep an Eye on Your Belongings: Stay alert and keep your belongings secure during performances.
13. Lottery Scams
Avoid falling for lottery scams. Recognize the signs of a fake lottery ticket or email scam.
- Check Local Lotteries: Learn about local lotteries and their rules.
- Ignore Unsolicited Messages: Do not respond to unsolicited emails, phone calls, or messages regarding lotteries.
- Check the Organizer's Credentials: Research the lottery organizer and look for official seals of approval.
14. Charity Scams
Avoid donating to fake charities. Recognize the signs of a scam charity and research legitimate organizations.
- Check with Authorities: Contact local authorities or a trusted charity verification organization.
- Look for Official Registration: Check if the charity is officially registered and recognized by the government.
- Research Online: Research charities online, reading reviews and checking their websites.
15. Dating Scams
Avoid online dating scams. Recognize the signs of a potential scammer and protect your personal information.
- Verification: Verify the identity of anyone you meet online through video calls or meeting in person.
- Be Wary of Requests for Money: Do not send money to someone you have only met online, no matter the reason.
- Protect Personal Information: Keep your personal information private and avoid sharing sensitive details.